Ask the Expert: Flu season has arrived

The influenza virus, better known as “the flu,” is a serious disease resulting in mild symptoms for some, hospitalization for others, and sometimes even death. Many of the people who get very sick from the flu are older adults, and those with medical conditions such as COPD, asthma, diabetes and pregnancy, and people who are immunocompromised. Infants and preschool-aged children are also at greater risk for getting the flu.

How can I combat the flu?

Prevention is the best way to combat spreading the flu. You can do your part in preventing the spread of the flu by getting yourself and your loved ones vaccinated, washing your hands often with soap and hot water, keeping surfaces clean and staying away from other people who are sick. The flu may be contagious from one to two days before symptoms appear, and up to seven days after symptoms begin.

When in the presence of others, be attentive to others who show symptoms of cold or flu. Avoid direct contact such as handshaking and hugging. Instruct children to avoid sharing food and drinks with their friends. If you notice you’ve been unintentionally or unavoidably in direct contact with somebody who you think may have flu-like symptoms, wash your hands as immediately as possible, and watch for the onset of respiratory symptoms.

Why should I get vaccinated against the flu?

Every flu season is different and the flu affects everyone differently. Millions of people get the flu every year, hundreds of thousands of people are hospitalized and thousands or tens of thousands of people die from flu-related causes every year. The flu shot has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations and even the risk of flu-related death in children. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to help protect against flu.

When should I get the flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people get the annual influenza vaccinations by the end of October, as flu season begins. The flu shot is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older. The vaccination is especially important for pregnant women, young children and older adults, who are all at a higher risk of the flu. New flu vaccines are released every year to keep up with changing flu viruses. Last year’s vaccine might not protect you from this year’s viruses so it is important to get your flu shots annually.

Check with your doctor before receiving a flu vaccine if you have previously had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine comes in the form of either a shot or a nasal spray. Some side effects that could occur after getting the flu vaccine include soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given. There is also a chance of having a low grade fever and body aches. These mild symptoms usually begin soon after the shot is given and can last a day or two.

What should I do if I think I have the flu?

People who are sick with flu often exhibit a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, check with your primary care provider to find out if you need a prescription medication such as Tamiflu. If you have symptoms of flu and are in a high-risk group, or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your health care provider. Then, stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

Most people with the flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. On average, people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks.

Combating the flu at IU Health:

To prevent the spread of the flu during flu season (November-March) and for the safety of our patients, we limit the visitors to our facilities. Only essential family members ages 18 or older may visit. We do not allow visitors who have flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, chills or aches. When flu restrictions are in place, signage will be posted throughout the hospitals and outpatient offices.

Additional flu resources for understanding the flu vaccine, caring for loved ones with the flu, and talking to your children about the flu are available at cdc.gov/flu.